Definition

Bronchiolitis is a childhood disease that affects the lungs. It occurs when a virus enters the breathing system. The virus causes the tiny airways in the lungs to become swollen. As a result, a thick fluid called mucus collects in the airways. This makes it hard for air to flow freely in the lungs.

The infection will usually go away after 7-10 days. Some may show very mild symptoms. In others, the disease can be severe. Younger children are more likely to have severe symptoms because they have smaller airways.

Causes

Bronchiolitis is caused by a virus. There are several different types of virus that may cause it. The viruses are easily spread from person to person like a common
cold
. It spreads most often through coughs or sneezes which release droplets of moisture into the air. Breathing in the air can cause the infection in a noninfected person.

Risk Factors

Bronchiolitis can affect anyone. Some factors that may increase your risk of infection include:

Age—most likely in children under the age of two, especially between 3-6 months old

Blood test—for complete blood count to look for infections in the blood

Treatment

There is no medication to cure viral infections. The infection will usually clear on its own after a week to 10 days.

Treatment steps will focus on making your child more comfortable. These steps include:

Have the child drink clear liquids.

Use a vaporizer in the bedroom.

If your child is coughing and very congested, consider sitting in a steamy bathroom. Run hot water from the shower. Sit in the bathroom with your child until the coughing eases.

Do not smoke around your child. Keep your child away from smoke.

Consider
acetaminophen
(eg, Children’s or Infant’s Tylenol) if a fever is present.
Note
:
Aspirin
is not recommended for children or teens with a current or
recent viral infection. This is because of the risk of
Reye's
syndrome
. Ask your doctor which other medicines are safe for your child.

Your doctor may also recommend or give your child an inhaled medication. This may include a bronchodilator or hypertonic saline. These medications can help open airways and ease breathing.

In severe cases, medical treatment may be needed. The doctor will check for
dehydration
and pneumonia. The doctor will also make sure the child is getting enough oxygen. Your child may need to be admitted to the hospital.

Prevention

There is no vaccine to prevent bronchiolitis. There are some medications that may lessen the risk of bronchiolitis by
respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
. RSV is a virus which causes more than half of all cases of bronchiolitis. This preventative medication is usually given to high-risk babies. It is given monthly during high risk RSV season.

Proper handwashing
habits can help to prevent the spread of illness. Make sure to wash your hands before touching your child. Also wash your hands after being in contact with an infected person.

Bronchiolitis can spread easily from one person to another. Children should be kept home until they are well. Teach your children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when they cough or sneeze.

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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.